Are Dental Implants a Good Idea for Children?

Just like adults, there can be situations when a person under the age of 18 will lose a permanent tooth. Whether a tooth deteriorates and has to be pulled or a tooth is lost due to traumatic facial injury, it may lead you to consider a dental implant for your child. Here is a look at some of the things you should know about this unique dental treatment and children.

Dental Implants Are Rarely a Necessity for Children

Even though dental implants can be a good solution for adults, it is actually quite rare for a child to need a dental implant. The primary reason would be the loss of a permanent tooth, including that tooth’s root. Otherwise, the dentist can place a crown over a damaged tooth and it will do fine for the child. There are certain instances that can spring from certain developmental issues that may be a good reason for a child to get a dental implant as well. For example, if the child has a health condition that prevents their teeth from growing in, a dental implant may be a solution.

Dental Implants for Children Are Only Appropriate at Certain Ages

The jaw of a child is still growing and changing, which means placing an implant in most cases would not be ideal. The implant would move or even dislodge as the jaw grows, which is definitely not going to be a desirable situation because the implant would have to be reseated or replaced. Children are most often good candidates for an implant once they have reached older adolescents (between 16 and 18). However, single implants have been documented for children far younger when they can greatly benefit from the procedure.

Talk to Us About Dental Implants in Reseda, CA

Opting for an implant for a child should involve careful forethought and a detailed assessment by a qualified cosmetic dentist. In the end, opting for dental implants for someone who is not an adult can be questionable, but there are certain circumstances when this form of treatment may be fine and very beneficial for the child. If you would like to know more about dental implants, reach out to us at Canby Dental in Reseda, CA.